This should come as no surprise given that Melton did not live up to expectations in 2014, and the Cowboys are in a tough financial position.

Dallas had until Sunday to inform Melton regarding whether or not they would be exercising his three-year option.

Had the Cowboys picked up Melton’s option, it would have guaranteed him $9 million for the 2015 season, which happens to be a lot of money for team like the Cowboys, who have a limited amount of cap space and some notable free agents to address.

Melton will now be an unrestricted free agent for the second time in as many season.

Last year, he was working his way back from a serious knee injury, which was likely the reason for his limited production in 2014.

Melton, 28, appeared in all 16 games for the Cowboys this season and recorded 15 tackles, five sacks and two fumble recoveries.

Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 15 defensive tackle in the league out of 81 qualifying players.